Why the $16.3 billion halal cosmetics industry will grow even bigger

“American Beauty” is a new series in which Yahoo Lifestyle takes a virtual cross-country journey to discover what beauty means — reimagining the American flag through the diverse group of faces that make up the United States of America. For our first installment, we’re focusing on Muslim-American women, highlighting what makes this group unique while showcasing the common threads that bring us together.

Consumers have certainly become more selective in recent years when shopping for beauty products. Whether they are certified vegan, organic, or both, overall, brands are striving to meet the needs of diverse demographics. It’s a change for the better that doesn’t go unnoticed or unappreciated. Halal beauty has become a major part of the conversation when it comes to ethically sourced products and is the perfect solution for Muslim women who are searching for cosmetics that won’t compromise their faith.

In an interview with Refinery29, Habib Ghanim, director of ISWA Halal Certification Department and president of USA Halal Chamber of Commerce, explained that “eligible products must notcontain any pork, animals that were dead prior to slaughtering, blood, alcohol, or carnivorous animals — these items are considered haram, which means ‘forbidden’ in Arabic.

“Halal” is an Arabic word meaning lawful or permitted. In reference to food, it is the dietary standard as prescribed in the Quran (Muslim scriptures). When it comes to certifying beauty, grooming, and other personal care products as halal in the U.S., there are guidelines issued by the USA Halal Chamber of Commerce. The entire process can take several months, as each product is carefully tested to meet specific criteria.

Imam Khalid Latif, executive director of New York University’s Islamic Center and co-founder of halal butcher Honest Chops, also told Refinery29, “For an animal slaughtering to be considered halal, the animal must be slaughtered in the name of Allah, meaning it must be killed by hand — or by a specific method of cutting — while a prayer is recited.”

Grand View Research, a U.S. based market and research consulting company, shared eye-opening insights that revealed in 2015 the global halal cosmetic market was valued at about $16.3 billion and is expected to reach $52 billion by 2025. The increase in availability will no doubt propel the Muslim beauty market, especially with online shopping destinations such as Pretty Suci leading the charge in showcasing halal beauty offerings.

Yahoo Lifestyle did a deep dive to uncover some of the best halal beauty products. Click through to discover nine brands that are revolutionizing traditional markets.

Whether you are looking for a Wudhu-friendly nail polish or neutral-toned matte liquid lipstick, Zahara is a great go-to. Muslims pray five times a day, and before each prayer they must cleanse in a ritual known as “Wudu.” So many womn prefer “breathable nail polish” to allow the water to permeate. (Photo: Zahara)

Inglot O2M Breathable Nail Enamel

Inglot’s O2M Breathable Nail Enamels collection is not only formulated with “breathable” polimers that allow water to pass through, but it’s also available in a plethora of classic and trendy shades that boost a high-shine finish. (Photo: Inglot)

Iba Halal Care

As noted on their website, Iba Halal Care is the first halal-certified cosmetics company to take India by storm. Whether you want to indulge in a naturally scented body soap or try your hand at using Kajal eyeliner, it’s all there. (Photo: Iba Halal Care)

Klarity

Coined as one of the first halal-certified skincare lines in Singapore, Klarity offers an amazing mix of products ranging from powerful mask treatments to eye creams. (Photo: Klarity)

Amara Cosmetics

Offering everything from cool makeup sponges to dual blush and bronzer palettes, Amara Cosmetics was one of the first companies to provide halal-friendly products in North America. (Photo: Amara Cosmetics)

Orkid Cosmetics

Any line of lipsticks that includes names such as “Slay” and “Chicky Baby” sounds like a good idea. Orkid Cosmetics, which is based in Malayasia, possesses a range of halal liquid lipsticks that are too good to pass up. (Photo: Orkid Cosmetics)

Elexia Naturals

If you are looking for a beautifully packaged skin and body brand that’s halal-friendly, this soothing line has everything you need — including star products such as the Wonder Balm, which treats individuals with eczema, psoriasis, and sensitive skin. (Photo: Elexia)

Sampure Minerals

Halal-certified, vegetarian, and cruelty-free are a few of the characteristics of U.K.-based brand Sampure Minerals. You can shop for everything ranging from mascaras to lipsticks and skin care. (Photo: Sampure Minerals)

Tuesday In Love

This halal brand makes awesome eyeshadow palettes and so much more at amazing prices. (Photo: Tuesday In Love)